When someone searches for a service “near me”, Google shows a handful of local businesses before anything else. Getting into that shortlist can transform how many calls and walk-ins you receive.
Use this checklist to make sure you’re giving yourself the best possible chance.
Claim and complete your Google Business Profile
- Choose the most accurate primary category, then add relevant secondary categories.
- Fill in opening hours, services, service areas and a keyword-rich description.
- Upload real photos of your team, premises and work, and keep adding new ones.
- Post updates, offers and news regularly to show you’re active.
Keep your name, address and phone number consistent
Your business details should match exactly across your website, Google, social profiles and directories. Inconsistencies confuse search engines and customers alike.
Earn, and respond to, reviews
Reviews are one of the strongest local ranking signals. Ask happy customers for a review, make it easy with a direct link, and reply to every review, positive or negative.
Create location-focused pages
If you serve several areas, a dedicated page for each, with genuinely useful, specific content, helps you rank for those locations.
Get the technical basics right
- A fast, mobile-friendly website.
- LocalBusiness schema markup with your address and opening hours.
- Clear page titles and meta descriptions that mention your service and location.
- An embedded map and click-to-call phone number on your contact page.
Track what matters
Watch calls, direction requests and website clicks in your Google Business Profile insights, alongside enquiries tracked in Google Analytics 4. That’s how you’ll know your local SEO is paying off.
Want a second pair of eyes on your website? Request a free website audit and we’ll send you a prioritised list of quick wins.
